Council approves temporary 'tennis only' sign at Rainier Trails Park to discourage pickleball

The Enumclaw City Council voted May 26 to place a temporary sign at Rainier Trails Park asking users to limit play to tennis and directing pickleball players to newly resurfaced courts at Dwight Garrett Park.

Council member Smith moved for the sign after public comments and committee discussion about noise, parking and alleged public urination at Rainier Trails. "I make a motion to ask the council to implement a sign for Rainier Trails Park," the council member said.

Why it matters: Neighbors had complained about noise, parking and restroom availability as courts became a focal point for increasing pickleball play. Council members said signage is a low-cost, immediate step intended to reduce friction while staff explores longer-term options such as codified park rules, reimbursement for changed striping or alternate facilities.

Debate and limits: Several council members and staff emphasized the advisory nature of the signage. One councilor said the sign should not create an unenforceable restriction and warned it could trigger expectations for further action; another suggested wording that welcomes users and directs them to larger courts with amenities. Staff suggested a temporary laminated sign could be in place quickly and reevaluated in a month.

Vote and next steps: The motion to place a temporary sign passed after discussion and a second; staff will prepare sign language that encourages tennis-only play at Rainier Trails and directs users to Garrett Park, and the council will evaluate effects and possible further action at a later date.

Sources: Council discussion and motion on the public record at the May 26 Enumclaw City Council meeting.